Episodes
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Jeff recounts his favorite gardening column of all time, where he wrote about the intricate relationship between cluster flies and the soil food web.
After the break, the guys debunk some common myths about planting bulbs in the fall. Additionally, they give some good planting tips.
Finally, they answer a trio of listener questions, ranging from growing garlic to pet waste in compost.
All this and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
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Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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Last week the guys talked about applying organics to the garden to nurture the soil food web. This week, they talk about another contributor to healthy soil: Springtails!
Springtails are very small insects that break down organics by ingesting bacteria and fungi. They can also jump about 2 feet. This means when they jump around, they carry bacteria and fungal spores with them - which helps spread around the good stuff to the soil and gardens.
After the break, the team dives into more discussions about things you can do to prepare your gardens for the fall / winter transition. This includes collecting brown and green piles for your compost, putting down organics, and staking and labeling your perennials.
Finally, they answer a listener’s question about planting micro-clover in the fall.
All this and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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Missing episodes?
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As the weather transitions from summer to fall, it's time to consider how this change affects your garden.
Jeff encourages listeners to apply organic matter to their gardens now to prepare for next year's crops. He also suggests that this is an ideal time to get your soil tested. However, he emphasizes the importance of using a reputable soil tester that employs either the Reams Method or Albrecht Method. Jeff recommends Kinsey Agricultural Services or International Ag Labs.
After the break, the guys delve deeper into ways to prep the garden for the following year. They stress the importance of being strategic about where you apply fertilizers. For instance, they advise against putting fertilizer in areas where you'll be walking or where weeds tend to grow.
To wrap up, they field a question from a very special guest about the reason pumpkins grow so large in Alaska.
All this and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, Jeff and Jonathan are discussing healthy soil structure—particularly the role of worms. As the true engineers of the soil food web, worms bring organic matter from the surface down into the soil. This action creates burrows that hold air, water, and organic matter, forming the building blocks for a thriving organic soil structure.
After the break, the duo addresses a listener question about the differences between applying chemical treatments versus concentrated organic substances to soil.
Finally, they highlight the importance of maintaining a gardening diary or journal.
All that and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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As rain pelts Southcentral Alaska, mushrooms (and wood frogs) are popping up everywhere. Jeff and Jonathan point out that mushrooms in lawns or meadows are usually a positive sign, indicating thriving soil microbiology. In fact, fungal activity in your lawn is beneficial, as mushrooms are great decomposers in the food chain.
After the break, the guys discuss growing potatoes and ways to ensure you get the most out of your spuds. For example, if your potatoes are flowering, don't panic! Let them hang out for a few weeks (or a month) so the starches can filter down into the spud. This ensures a great-tasting potato!
Finally, the team tackles a listener's question about cauliflower.
All that and more on this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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Record rainfall has hit Southcentral Alaska. However, as the guys discuss this week, gardens can still thrive despite the wet conditions.
The team acknowledges that Alaskans are experts at gardening in wet soil. Jonathan points out that raised beds are excellent for rainy gardening, while Jeff mentions that containers are also effective. However, the best way to ensure your garden thrives in wet soil is to utilize the soil food web with ample amounts of compost. This approach creates healthy soil structure and drainage, also ensuring plants will fare well during dry spells.
After the break, the guys list various vegetables and plants that grow well in wet conditions, including:
CeleryCranberriesRhubarbForget-me-notsIrisMilkweedFinally, they answer a listener's question about managing leaf-rollers.
All this and more in this episode of Teaming with Microbes!
*********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, the guys discuss the fascinating world of hydrangeas. Jeff mentions that these vibrant flowers are the top-selling plant in garden centers across the U.S. because they are both gorgeous and easy to maintain. He notes that their popularity is due to their colorful appearance as well as their resilience and adaptability. Jonathan adds that hydrangeas thrive in warm soil and temperatures, making them an excellent choice for various climates. He also points out an interesting fact for Alaskans: moose don’t like them!
After the break, they continue their in-depth discussion on hydrangeas. They explore how pH levels in the soil can produce a spectrum of colors from blue to pink.
Finally, they address a listener's question about dealing with garden weeds.
All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, Jeff and Jonathan talk about all things lawns! But first, Jeff shares his thoughts on the benefits of going digital, including his weekly column at ADN.
Next, they dive into lawn care. Jeff advocates for getting creative with mowing, especially with different designs. For example, you can switch things up every mow with new patterns like diagonals, criss-crosses, waves, and even hearts! Jonathan reminds listeners that changing mowing patterns helps avoid creating ruts in the lawn. Also, it's a good idea to leave your mow clippings, as they're beneficial for the soil food web.
Finally, they answer a listener's question about managing chickweed.
All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, the guys share plenty of tips on getting the most out of your garden, especially on how to harvest your plants and vegetables efficiently. In Alaska, things grow quickly, particularly cole crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage.
Jeff emphasizes picking vegetables before they flower, while Jonathan suggests using a juicer to make the most of every bit of the garden.
After the break, they answer questions about blueberries and cherry trees.
Finally, Jeff wraps up by reminding everyone to start weeding invasive plants early.
All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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The guys are talking about all the rain happening in Southcentral Alaska recently, and Jonathan asks: Is too much rain bad for your garden? It turns out this is a nuanced question. For example, if your outdoor soil food web garden is healthy, rain shouldn't be too big of a deal. Just remember that too much water for indoor plants can be a bad thing.
After the break, the team discusses some abundant Alaskan wildflowers that are edible, including fireweed, dandelions, and watermelon berries, to name a few.
Finally, they answer some listener questions, one of which involves radishes—Jeff's favorite food!
All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, Jeff and Jonathan are dealing with the vast amounts of cottonwood seeds flying around Southcentral Alaska. Jonathan highlights how the seeds trigger allergies, while Jeff shares some science facts. For example, did you know a cottonwood tree can produce 1 to 2 million seeds per year? Additionally, parts of the cottonwood are edible, and it can even be harvested for syrup.
After the break, they discuss an invasive plant infesting parts of Alaska: Japanese Knotweed. Although it can be a beautiful plant, its roots spread incredibly fast and deep underground, which could cause huge problems if it makes its way into Southcentral Alaska.
Finally, they address a few listener questions, circling back to last week's thoughts on electric composters and garden tools.
All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily Newsfor hosting the show!
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This week, the guys are talking all about lilacs. In Alaska, there is a short window when lilacs are in full bloom (about 6 weeks), so it’s important to care for them properly to keep them healthy year after year. Fun fact: Jeff’s grandfather hybridized a lilac!
After the break, Jeff shares the battery-powered tools he uses for gardening:
Small chainsawBlowerWeed eaterJeff is disappointed with his modern weed eater because it’s difficult to maintain, while Jonathan is pleasantly surprised with his weed eater’s ease of use. One thing the guys agree on is that a good weed eater is essential for a healthy-looking lawn or meadow!
Finally, they discuss the practicality of newer electric composters and ask listeners to share their thoughts.
Discover all this and more in this week's episode of Teaming With Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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Jonathan reveals his fondness for chickweed, while Jeff expresses his dislike for this rapidly growing weed. However, they both agree on chickweed's resilient nature and its ability to spread.
Digging a bit deeper, Jeff introduces the plant's alternative names, such as mouse ears, starflower and satin weed. Some fascinating aspects of chickweed include its ability to grow with minimal light and its indication of healthy soil.
After the break, they continue discussing chickweed, emphasizing that each plant can produce 25,000 seeds!
Wrapping up the episode, they answer a listener's question about compost.
Discover all this and more in this week's episode of Teaming With Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily Newsfor hosting the show!
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Jonathan is bummed out that the dandelions are turning white. However, Jeff reminds him that each flower has about 300 seeds (making it a powerful spreader). This kicks off a discussion about the hidden powers of dandelions. For example, did you know that you can make teas, wine and even tempura with them? Also, the dandelion taproot can burrow 15 feet into the ground!
After the break, Jonathan gives an update on his new ‘meadow’ and is surprised to see an abundance of clover.
All that and more in this week's episode of Teaming With Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
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In this week's episode, Jeff and Jonathan dive into strategies for planting and caring for different types of beans and peas.
Jeff begins by discussing the history of sweet peas, emphasizing their delightful fragrance, vibrant colors, and easy cultivation.
Next, they compare sweet and snap peas, with Jeff emphasizing the importance of pinching and picking the flowers.
After the break, Jonathan recounts his experience of using a wildflower seed kit in hopes of creating a lush meadow in his yard.
All that and more in this week's episode of Teaming With Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, Jeff and Jonathan celebrate the bountiful dandelions flourishing in Southcentral Alaska, prompting an important question: where do they originate?
They discuss how attitudes towards dandelions have evolved over the years and explore strategies to prevent their overgrowth.
Next, they share tips on introducing native plants to your yard, garden, or meadow, including optimal planting locations and conditions for their growth. For those in northern climates, Jeff recommends the book, 'Wildflowers for Northern Gardens.'
Post-break, they discuss methods to identify plants, emphasizing that most mobile phones feature built-in AI plant identifiers.
Finally, they address a few listener questions.
Tune in to this week's episode of Teaming With Microbes for more.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, Jeff and Jonathan dive into essential tips for early season lawn care. Fresh off a weekend of 26 hours of yard work, Jonathan shares his experience aerating his entire lawn and testing the soil. Jeff emphasizes the importance of giving your lawn a trim, even if you're planning to let it grow into a meadow.
Did you know lawn mowers are significant polluters? Jeff suggests mowing one time less each month to benefit the environment and encourages listeners to get creative with their mowing patterns.
The discussion then shifts to the abundance of dandelions in South Central Alaska, reminding gardeners to consider the sun's axis when setting up greenhouses or planting gardens.
The guys wrap up by addressing a listener's question about the benefits and usage of liquid kelp in gardening. All that and more on this week’s episode of Teaming With Microbes.
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, the team eagerly digs into early season gardening. To start, Jeff discusses hardening off your plants in his Anchorage Daily News column.
Jeff also offers a wealth of gardening advice, sharing his favorite hacks. These include ways to keep your fingernails clean when gardening, ensuring your hose can reach every garden corner, and labeling everything.
Following a short break, the team addresses dandelion management.
Lastly, they respond to a variety of listener questions. Topics range from the complexities of compost tea to the potential benefits of adding birch water to your garden.
Tune in to this week’s episode of Teaming with Microbes for these insights and more!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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Jonathan needs assistance in regenerating a part of his lawn that was damaged last year. To aid him, the team brings in Anthony Nied, owner and operator of Flawn Seed Kits. This company focuses on creating lawns and meadows that require less maintenance. They discuss transitioning to a different type of lawn (not quite a meadow) that is low-growing, suitable for play, and has some color.
For more information about Anthony's work, visit Flawn Seed Kits.
Catch all this and more in this week's episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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This week, the team celebrates the upcoming gardening season in Alaska. However, this also means an increase in misinformation online, particularly about tomatoes! Jeff and Jonathan sift through the most misleading myths to set the record straight.
After the break, the team continues the discussion from last week about hardening off plants, providing examples of the correct way to do it. By the way, now is a great time to start planning this for Alaskan gardens and plants.
Finally, they address a listener's question about compost.
Don't miss all this and more in this week's episode of Teaming with Microbes!
**********************************************
Have a question? Let us know at [email protected]
Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural FertilizersThe Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.
Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!
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